What did you think of this episode?

Writing for Middle Grade isn’t as easy as you might think. Today’s guest shares her top five tips to help you be successful. 

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I’m so glad you’re listening in. During this episode, you’ll learn about … Top Five Tips for Writing Successful Middle Grade books.

My industry expert is Taryn Souders. Taryn’s middle grade novels have been named to over 25 state award lists. Her book, Coop Knows the Scoop, was a 2021 Edgar Award nominee for Best Juvenile mystery novel and a Maud Hart Lovelace Honor book. The Mystery of the Radcliffe Riddle won the Florida Book Award and was both an Agatha Award and an Anthony Award nominee.  

Alright, let’s head into our content for today.

Top Five Tips for Writing Successful Middle Grade:

1. KNOW your audience! 
2. Don’t have a bad-looking cover. 
3. Don’t preach. 
4. You HAVE to have high stakes and tension.
5. Study dialogue. 

Taryn Souder's new book is releasing in January 2026. It's called SECRETS OF THE BROKEN HOUSE (Sourcebooks Young Readers)

You can find out more about Taryn below

Website: www.tarynsouders.com

X : https://x.com/TarynSouders

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taryn.souders

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taryn_souders/

 Books Taryn recommends:

-The Fort by Gordon Korman

-The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo

-Wild Robot by Peter Brown.

Linda suggests any book by Taryn Souders! 

The Mystery of the Radcliffe Riddle

Coop Knows the Scoop

How to (Almost) Ruin Your Summer

REGISTER for the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference

REGISTER for the Florida Christian Writers Conference

Info on the 2025 FCWC

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

Writing conflict into stories is essential for producing a successful book. Stay tuned. Today’s guest will provide tips for creating effective conflicts for your characters.

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I’m so glad you’re listening in. 

During this fourth episode of the Savvy Skills for the Beginning Writer series, you’ll learn how to write effective conflict.

My industry expert is DiAnn Mills. DiAnn is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists. She has won two Christy Awards, the Golden Scroll, and Selah awards, and was a finalist in the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol Award contests. DiAnn teaches writing all over the country.

DiAnn explains the following tips to improve the effectiveness of conflict when you write fiction. These tips also help with writing nonfiction.

What creates more conflict?

• Incorrect understanding of what is going on.
• The character doesn’t have all the information.
• The character is being lied to or deceived.
• The character isn’t sure he/she is making the right decision.

For your copy of Diann’s Characterization Sketch, email [email protected]

Savvy Skills for the Beginning Writer Part One

Savvy Skills for the Beginning Writer Part Two

Savvy Skills for the Beginning Writer Part Three

Learn more about Diann Mills below.

 - diannmills.com

 - facebook.com/diannmills

 - x.com/diannmills

 - diannmills.com/articles

 - bookbub.com/authors/diann-mills

 - instagram.com/diannmillsauthor/

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

If you've ever thought about becoming a published author, today’s episode will dispel some myths you might believe to be true.

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I’m so glad you’re listening in. During this episode, you’ll learn about several Publishing Myths that hold you back from becoming a successful author.

My industry expert is… W. Terry Whalin. Terry understands both sides of the editorial desk--as an editor and a writer. He worked as a magazine editor whose work has appeared in more than 50 publications. A former book acquisitions editor for several publishers and a former literary agent, Terry is an acquisitions editor at Morgan James Publishing.  He has written more than 60 books through traditional publishers, covering a wide range of topics, from children’s books to biographies and co-authored works. Over 20 years ago, Terry wrote a diet book in eleven days called First Place by Carole Lewis, which has sold over 100,000 copies. Terry’s newest book is 10 Publishing Myths, Insights Every Author Needs to Succeed (Morgan James Publishing).

We cover several myths found in Terry's book during today's episode. You can get your physical copy for only $10 (includes shipping), plus this special comes with over $200 worth of free bonuses. Get Terry's special offer at publishingoffer.com

Check out the 11th Myth here for your free chapter - https://Terrylinks.com/11thmyth

Click to receive Terry's Book Proposal ebook.

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

During this third episode of the Savvy Skills for the Beginning Writer series, you’ll learn How to Work Smart in Your Writing Career.

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I’m so glad you’re listening in.

My industry expert is DiAnn Mills. DiAnn is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists. She has won two Christy Awards, Golden Scroll, and Selah awards, and was a finalist in the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. DiAnn teaches writing all over the country.

Here are today's 11 Ways to Work Smart in Your Writing Career 

You also get a bonus download - 11 More Ways to Work Smart in Your Writing Career 

Savvy Skills for the Beginning Writer Part One

Savvy Skills for the Beginning Writer Part Two

Links

You can find out more about … in our show notes as well.

- diannmills.com

- facebook.com/diannmills

- x.com/diannmills

- diannmills.com/articles

- bookbub.com/authors/diann-mills

- instagram.com/diannmillsauthor/

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

Are you prepared to take the podcasting world by storm? Today’s guest shares tips to help you become the guest that podcasters can’t wait to interview. 

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I’m so glad you’re listening in. During this episode, you’ll learn how to Be A Writer Podcasters Love to Interview.

My industry expert is… Shelly Snead. She is a writer, an award-winning blogger, and host of UnPerfect, a podcast for Christian Women who desire to fully live the lives they’ve been dealt. She’s been miraculously married for 29 years and is “mom” to four kids, a beautiful daughter-in-law, and a spoiled mutt she rescued in a weak moment.

How to Be A Writer Podcasters Love to Interview

Talking Points:

1.    What is the first step a writer should take before requesting an interview on a specific podcast?

a.    Study the Podcast you are asking to be interviewed for.  

b.    (Discussion of how a writer can know if they are a good fit for a podcast).

2.     How should a writer adjust their mindset when preparing for a podcast interview?

a.    Focus on serving rather than promoting. 

b.    (most important tip - requires a mindset shift, discussion of why it’s not really about your “book”)

3.     How can a writer assist the podcast host in preparing for the interview?

a.    Provide a list of suggested questions for your topic or a subtopic of your book. 

b.    (discussion of a press release, suggested topics, even ways that fiction writers can land interviews)

Downloadable Giveaway - https://shellysnead.com/yourbestwritinglife/

 You can find out more about Shelly in our show notes.

www.shellysnead.com (website)

https://shellysnead.substack.com/subscribe 

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

As a Christian writer, strong listening skills can enhance readers' enjoyment. 

Stay tuned. Today’s guest will share three ways to boost your writing-related listening skills.

Welcome to Your Best Writing Life, an extension of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference held in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mts of NC. I’m your host, Linda Goldfarb. Each week, I bring tips and strategies from writing and publishing industry experts to help you excel in your craft. I’m so glad you’re listening in. 

During this part two episode of Savvy Skills for the Beginning Writer series, you’ll learn How Listening Makes Us Better Writers.

My industry expert is DiAnn Mills. DiAnn is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists. She has won two Christy Awards, Golden Scroll, and Selah awards, and was a finalist in the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. DiAnn teaches writing all over the country.

Three ways to increase your writerly listening skills:

1. Listen with your whole body and mind. Shut out the rest of the world and concentrate on the audible voice.

2. Listen with empathy. Put yourself in the speaker’s shoes. What differences will this audible contribution make in your writing?

3. Listen with purpose. A writer aims to put themselves aside and write as the character.

Download DiAnn's How Listening Makes Us Better Writers PDF

You can find out more about DiAnn Mills in our show notes.

 - diannmills.com

 - facebook.com/diannmills

 - x.com/diannmills

 - diannmills.com/articles

 - bookbub.com/authors/diann-mills

 - instagram.com/diannmillsauthor/

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

Boost book sales through Amazon. In this encore episode, Linda Goldfarb and Vincent B. Davis II share what you need to know to increase sales as a multibook author.

Linda Goldfarb's industry expert is Vincent B. Davis II. Vincent is an author, entrepreneur, and veteran.  He is a graduate of East Tennessee State University and has served in the United States Army since 2014. He's the author of eight books, four of which have become international bestsellers. When he's not researching or writing his next book, you can find him watching Carolina Panthers football or playing with his rescued mutt, Buddy.

The questions Linda and Vincent cover in today's episode are:

1. How to optimize your front and back matter.

2. Getting beyond Option Paralysis

3.  Number one way to sell more books R & R

4. The statistical benefit of writing more books.

5. Tools outside Amazon to augment Amazon sales.

6.  Traffic + Conversion = $$$

LINKS
Vincent B. Davis II
Amazon Strategies for Advanced Writers PDF download
Pickfu.com
Ask Vincent about coaching - include YBWL in the subject line and request $100 off.  email [email protected] 

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

Need help with Amazon optimization? Amazon marketing expert Vincent B. Davis II shares what you need to succeed in this encore episode as a Christian writer.

Linda Goldfarb's industry expert is Vincent B. Davis II. Vincent is an author, entrepreneur, and veteran. He graduated from East Tennessee State University and has served in the United States Army since 2014. He's the author of eight books, four of which have become international bestsellers. When he's not researching or writing his next book, you can find him watching Carolina Panthers football or playing with his rescued mutt, Buddy.

The questions Linda and Vincent cover in today's encore episode are:

1.     Why choose to sell exclusively on Amazon? 

2.     What are two considerations we must know about Amazon marketing? 

3.     What milestones should authors try to hit after launching a book on Amazon?  

4.     How do authors engage with Amazon algorithms to sell books? 

5.     What types of books typically succeed on Amazon with your marketing tactics?

 LINKS
Vincent B. Davis II
Amazon Strategies for Beginning Writers PDF download
Ask Vincent about coaching - include YBWL in the subject line and request $100 off.

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

In today’s encore episode, you will learn how to write more deeply while giving your reader a shorter study time. 

Linda Goldfarb's industry expert is Kathy Howard. Kathy is a treasure hunter. She hunts for the creamiest chocolate and richest coffee. She searches for cherished stories of faith that still impact hearts. And, she digs deep into God’s Word, mining His eternal truths for herself and to share with others. With more than 30 years of experience, Kathy has taught in dozens of states, internationally, and in various venues, including multi-church conferences and large online events. 

She has a Master's degree in Christian Education and a certificate in Women’s Ministry from the Canadian Baptist Theological Seminary. She is the author of 12 books, including five Bible studies and the Deep Rooted devotional series. She also serves on the LifeWay Women’s Ministry Training Team. Kathy and her husband live near family in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. They have three married children, six grandchildren, and one accidental dog. Kathy provides free discipleship resources and blogs regularly at www.KathyHoward.org.

Discover what a hybrid devotional study is and how you can begin writing meaty devotionals without breaking the time bank.

LINKS
Kathy Howard
How to Write a Deep Devotional PDF free download
Kathy Howard's Books

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast

What did you think of this episode?

What you don't know about Public Relations as writers could be crushing your reputation. Linda Goldfarb and Julie Bonn Blank share top PR tips in today's encore episode.

Linda Goldfarb's industry expert is Julie Bonn Blank. When Julie is not writing, she designs websites, works at ARMS/Abuse Recovery Ministry Services, and loves to walk the beach. She is a Certified Domestic Abuse Advocate in Oregon and an expert in domestic violence. She facilitates the Washington County Survivor Voices Committee and provides training in abuse and on many marketing and writing topics. She also facilitates an online encouragement, prayer, and critique group, North Coast Christian Writers.

PR Secrets and Slam Dunks for Writers

1. What exactly is Public Relations
2. At what level of writing should one consider PR
3. What is more valuable online or printable PR
   1. Traditional PR – advertising, direct mail, 7 times before people move on it
   2. Online PR – reviews, ads, reputation management – 
   3. Events, Webinars, (promo spread sheet)
4. budget-sensitive tips writers can take for a DIY form of PR
   1. Work with your marketing team
   2. Webinars
   3. Haro – help a reporter out – free email list – sign up as an expert
   4. Podcasts – for authors - podcastguests.com 
   5. News Media outlets – local news – books – press release – connect with reports (send thank you cards)
   6. Variety of topics – find celebrities – send your book to them – thank-you card – contactanycelebrity.com 

Partnerships – work too (nonprofits $$ or % goes to them)

1. What is your most important PR tip for writers.
   1. Not sales necessarily – connections
   2. Email list most important – storyorigin.com booksweeps.com – active audience 
   3. Speaking opportunities – build them - 

LINKS
Julie Bonn Blank
Abuse Recovery Ministries
Julie's Freebie - A short 2-story ebook, “Innocent Journeys"
Innocent Lives: Guardians of Grace Book 1
Innocent Voices: Guardians of Grace Book 2

Visit Your Best Writing Life website.
Join our Facebook group, Your Best Writing Life
Your host - Linda Goldfarb
#1 Podcast in the "Top 50+ Must-Have Tools and Resources for Christian Writers in 2024".

Awarded the Spark Media 2022 Most Binge-Worthy Podcast
Awarded the Spark Media 2023 Fan Favorites Best Solo Podcast